01/13/2026
A Life That Touched Generations: Graceville Remembers Gail Moul
To many in Graceville, Gail Moul was more than a familiar name or face — he was a constant presence marked by kindness, faith, and a genuine love for people. Whether welcoming students at school, greeting teenagers at Jo-Zel’s, or quietly serving behind the scenes in church and community life, Moul had a gift for making others feel seen and valued. His passing on December 5, 2025, leaves a deep void, but his influence continues to live on in the countless lives he shaped.
Born July 1, 1935, in Fort Monroe, Virginia, Gail was the son of the late Captain Wilson Franklin Moul and Doris Leslie Moul. He grew up in South Carolina, graduating from Brookland Cayce High School in 1953. Called to ministry at the age of sixteen, he followed God’s direction through a lifetime of learning and service—earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Furman University in 1957, a Bachelor of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1961, and later a Master of Library Science from North Texas State University in 1968.
Moul found great purpose in his work as a librarian, touching countless lives through education and encouragement. Over the years, he served at institutions including the Baptist Bible Institute, Jackson County Public Library, Texas Technological State University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Furman University, and Apalachee Correctional Institution. His quiet dedication, vast knowledge, and kind spirit made him a valued colleague wherever he served.
In Graceville, many knew him not only through his work in education, but through the heart he showed the community every day. For six memorable years, he owned and operated Jo-Zel’s Steak Hoagie and Pizza — a gathering place that became part of the town’s fabric. Generations of Graceville teenagers remember being fed, welcomed, and allowed to “hang out” in the back room, where laughter, jukebox music, and kindness filled the space.One former student, Rob Martin, recalled those days with fond clarity. “Every Friday when we had a home game in football Jo-zel’s is where we went as a team to eat,” he shared. “I still remember those hoagies — they were so good. If there was a more ‘Norman Rockwell’ scene I can’t imagine how. Mr. Moul always greeted me with kindness and a sincere smile, calling me Mr. Martin, even though I was about 15 years old at the time.”
That same kindness followed Moul into the halls of Graceville School, where he became a familiar and cherished presence. Known affectionately by students and staff alike, he was often described as “GES’ own celebrity”. His love for history, education, and people made him a mentor to generations. He retired from Graceville School in September 2021, closing a chapter of service that had deeply shaped the school community.
Janet Register, reflected on the lasting impression he left writing, “Mr. Moul was a sweet man that loved every student at Graceville School. He always had a smile and kind encouraging words to share with anyone who took time to listen. He is one of the ones that stands out in my memories of the days gone by. Rest in peace Mr. Moul — you have run a good race.”
Above all else, Gail Moul’s deepest calling was ministry. Ordained by First Baptist Church of West Columbia in 1964, he faithfully served congregations throughout his life. He pastored Esto Baptist Church from 1974 to 1980 and devoted more than 35 years — from 1980 to 1983 and again from 1990 until 2025 — to shepherding Whitewater Baptist Church in Caryville. Through decades of sermons, hospital visits, weddings, baptisms, and prayers, he shared the love of Christ with humility, compassion, and steadfast faith.
Those who knew him remember not just his roles or accomplishments, but the quiet consistency of his character — a man who showed up, listened, and served without seeking recognition. Graceville mourns his passing while giving thanks for a life lived in service, faith, and love — a legacy that will continue to echo through the stories and hearts of this community for generations to come.
